Michelle Rowland Member for Greenway participates in 24 Utsav of Vaishnav Sangh of Sydney.

In her remarks, Michelle Rowland said:

Jai Shri Krishna

Bhagwat Smaran — may our hearts and minds be filled with the divine remembrance of Lord Krishna as we come together for this special, and spiritual, event.

I am humbled and honoured to welcome His Holiness Shri Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayashri back to Australia.

Tonight is significant and symbolic. We are gathered to celebrate the 24th Utsav of the Vaishnav Sangh of Sydney.

And what makes this occasion even more memorable is the fact that His Holiness has graced this celebration every year.

This is a testament to his deep love for this community — a reflection of his dedication and devotional leadership that transcends borders, bringing joy, unity, and sanctity to thousands across the world.

We also gather to celebrate Shri Yamuna Gungaan Mahotsav — a tribute to Shri Yamunaji, a divine goddess and constant companion to Lord Krishna.

Her presence is symbolic and spiritual — representing purity, devotion, and the eternal bond between the devotee and the Divine.

May I also take a moment to congratulate His Holiness on his 50th birthday — a milestone he has selflessly used to inspire a global movement of faith and connection.

His campaign: “Proud to be a Vaishnav” spans 50 countries in a single year — a Pruthvi Parikrama Mahotsav that embodies the spirit of unity, humanity, and Vaishnav bhakti and identity.

This is not just a journey around the world — it is a journey into the hearts of Vaishnavs across continents, spreading timeless values and strengthening the spiritual threads that bind us as one global family.

Tonight, we also celebrate the Vaishnav Sangh of Sydney — the first and oldest Vaishnav community organisation in Australia.

You have played an integral role in nurturing cultural, spiritual, educational, and social growth for our community.

From celebrating key festivals to conducting classes and charitable activities, you embody the values of Pushtimarg, enriching your members and the broader Australian community.

I am pleased to say, a re-elected Albanese Government will commit $30,000 to the Vaishnav Sangh of Sydney to support the hosting of Hindu cultural events, including Gujarati Dance Festival Garba, Ankut, and Diwali.

I know this is modest compared to the significance of these events and all the effort that goes in, but I sincerely hope it assists.

Your efforts promote a vibrant and inclusive multicultural spirit that is at the heart of our Australian identity.

As someone who proudly represents the electorate of Greenway, here in North-west Sydney, I am honoured that the first Vaishnav Haveli in NSW — Vraj Haveli — is located in Riverstone, right in our backyard.

I had the pleasure of being there for the inauguration, six months ago, and to have His Holiness with us on that historic occasion made it even more special.

This Haveli is more than a place of worship — it is a landmark achievement.

It will stand for generations as a symbol of spiritual strength and cultural pride — a testament to what the community can achieve together.